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Christian Music

Gospel Jamboree brings uplifting music to the tri-communities

Aug 19, 2019 | 12:17 PM

Christian music was the focus of a new First Annual Gospel Jamboree hosted by the Lac La Ronge Indian Band (LLRIB) on the weekend.

The jamboree was organized by LLRIB Coun. Ann Ratt with assistance by Michael Bird. Ratt said between 200 to 300 people attended the two-day event which began Aug. 17. She noted there were about 20 gospel singers who came from the tri-communities as well as Deschambeault Lake, Montreal Lake Cree Nation, Pelican Lake First Nation, Pelican Narrows and Prince Albert.

“This was the first time I’ve listened to it and I don’t think there is enough in the community,” Ratt said about Christian music. “It is very uplifting when you are sitting there listening, and then the entertainers talk to the community members and you can just feel the energy in the hall.”

The idea to organize such an event occurred to Ratt when she was attending Gospel Night earlier this year as part of the LLRIB Winter Festival. She mentioned attendees at the event were disappointed it was only for one night, so she was determined hosting a larger jamboree would give people what they were asking for. The event also included special performances by Yvonne St. Germaine on Saturday and Carl Crane on Sunday.

The jamboree, which also included several meals, was free of charge and it was an alcohol and drug free event. Edna Mirasty served as the master of ceremonies and June Ratt along with the Northwind Band were the back-up for entertainers. Ratt believes, overall, the jamboree was a success and she expects to host it again next year.

“We’re going to try have it on the same date yearly, so the entertainers know which weekend it will be all the time,” she said.

derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno

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